(a) Examine the winches and/or cranes before hoisting cargo to be sure they are in good order; if they are not in good order, report it to the Foreman.

(b) In the event winches are steam powered, ensure they are free from water prior to commencing hoisting operations.

(c) Examine cargo runners. If cargo runners are frayed or worn, report it to the Foreman or the Hatchtender.

(d) Ensure that the cargo runners are properly secured to the winch drum by the securing device provided. Where there is no securing device, the runner shall be positively secured, for example, by a method such as a round turn and a half hitch around the shaft with the half hitch secured by clamp or seizing wire.

(e) Ensure that extension levers, when used, are securely fastened.

(f) If winches are not properly oiled, report it to the Foreman or the Hatchtender.

(g) When leaving winches or cranes, even temporarily, turn off power and lock levers in neutral.

(h) Obey signals from only the Hatchtender on duty.

(i) Not hoist or lower cargo or gear when a person is ascending or descending a hatch ladder.

(j) Not permit anyone to stand between strongbacks being handled and open hatches. A person standing in such place shall be warned away and the Winchdriver shall wait until the person is out of danger before lifting the strongback.

(k) Ensure the bypass key is not in the cab of the ship crane while longshore employees are operating such crane.

(l) Ensure that on vessels equipped with limit switches and/or bells, such switches and/or bells are operational and in good working order (refer also to Rule 322).

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